Student-led protests have resurfaced in Iran, coinciding with the start of the new university term and a significant day of mourning. Demonstrations occurred at five universities in Tehran, with activists chanting anti-regime slogans. While not on the scale of earlier uprisings, these protests represent a brave act given the authorities' crackdown.
Official death tolls remain disputed, with independent agencies reporting thousands of fatalities following the January crackdown. The 40th day of mourning is a historically sensitive period in Iran, often sparking renewed unrest and prompting a wary response from the regime.
Clashes have been reported in cities like Abdanan, where gunfire was heard during commemorations for a young protester killed in January. Internet access remains inconsistent.
Ayatollah Khamenei has described some January protesters as "naive" but "part of us." Amidst a US military build-up in the Middle East, Iranian authorities appear to be signaling a willingness to negotiate on the nuclear program rather than provoke further confrontation with the United States. The regime indicates readiness for a deal but remains prepared for conflict should the US initiate a strike. The decision now rests with Donald Trump on how to proceed.